Switched to pre-drilling for every screw, and my projects got way better.

I started pre-drilling all my screw holes and it cut down on splits. But my buddy says it's overkill for softwood, what do you think?

3 comments

3 Comments

perry.elliot2mo ago

Honestly, I read a woodworking blog that said pre-drilling is a must for hardwoods but still smart for softwood near edges. Your buddy might call it overkill, but I've seen softwood split too, especially with bigger screws. Tbh, it only adds a minute and saves the whole piece from ruining. Ngl, skipping it feels faster until you hear that crack and have to start over.

miamitchell2mo agoTop Commenter

Totally skipped it once and split the board

-1

lucas7352mo ago

Actually saw your post @miamitchell and it really made something click. Used to be totally against skipping, felt like you were just giving up on the setup. But seeing that it can actually split the board changes things. Means it's a real move, not just a bailout. Guess I was stuck in one way of seeing it. Your result shows it's a solid option when the setup is bad.